18837, Rome, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18837, Rome, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.76 percent of the residents in 18837 has some form of health insurance. 35.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.70 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18837 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 644 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18837. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 454 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,664 health care providers accessible to residents in 18837, Rome, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for primary care physicians in ZIP code 18837, focusing on factors relevant to early detection and comprehensive patient care, and considers the availability of primary care in Rome. This score is a composite, incorporating elements from physician availability to mental health support, all crucial in managing the complexities of lung cancer. It is important to remember that this is a theoretical exercise, and no real-world data is used.

The foundation of any good lung cancer care plan is access to a primary care physician. In ZIP code 18837, we begin by assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can potentially limit appointment availability and the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. We consider the total number of practicing primary care physicians within the zip code and estimate the population they serve. A ratio of 1:1500 or lower would be considered favorable, indicating a higher likelihood of timely appointments and personalized care. Conversely, a ratio exceeding 1:2500 would be a significant concern, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. We evaluate practices based on their adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those established by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively promote and facilitate low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screenings for eligible patients (those with a significant smoking history and age criteria) receive higher scores. This includes assessing the ease of scheduling screenings, the availability of on-site or readily accessible imaging services, and the practice's communication of screening results to patients.

Standout practices within the hypothetical 18837 area would be those that go beyond basic screening. This involves a proactive approach to patient education, including smoking cessation programs and resources. We look for practices that integrate these programs seamlessly into their care plans, offering counseling, medication assistance, and support groups. These practices would demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient empowerment.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, ensuring secure and user-friendly platforms, would receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of virtual visits, the ease of accessing patient portals, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care workflow.

The mental health of patients diagnosed with lung cancer is often overlooked, but it's a critical component of overall well-being. We evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the practice or through referrals. Practices that have on-site counselors, partnerships with mental health specialists, or a clear referral pathway for patients experiencing anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges related to their diagnosis and treatment receive a higher score. This includes assessing the accessibility of mental health services, the integration of mental health screening into routine checkups, and the practice's sensitivity to the emotional needs of patients.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the practice's communication and coordination of care. This involves assessing the efficiency of communication between the primary care physician, specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, etc.), and the patient. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate information sharing, have clear protocols for referrals, and provide patients with readily accessible medical records would score higher. This includes evaluating the practice's responsiveness to patient inquiries, the availability of after-hours support, and the overall patient experience.

Regarding primary care availability in Rome, the assessment focuses on broader access. We consider the physician-to-population ratio across the city, not just within a specific zip code. We examine the distribution of primary care practices, identifying any geographical disparities in access. We also assess the availability of public transportation and other means of reaching healthcare facilities, particularly for patients who may not have personal vehicles. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations, is another critical factor.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Rome would reflect the city's overall capacity to provide timely and accessible primary care. This includes assessing the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers and support services would also be factored in.

The impact of these factors on early detection and comprehensive care is substantial. A high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with a lack of screening programs and mental health support, can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes. Conversely, a strong primary care infrastructure, with readily accessible screenings, robust mental health resources, and a focus on patient education, can significantly improve the chances of early detection, effective treatment, and a better quality of life for lung cancer patients.

The hypothetical score for 18837 and Rome would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient care. It would highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement, guiding healthcare providers in their pursuit of providing the best possible care for their patients.

To visualize and analyze the distribution of primary care resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant factors within 18837 and the broader Rome area, consider exploring the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can offer a visual representation of these complex data points, enabling a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource allocation.